June 16, 2017
Areas of the northern plains and Dakota region are finally seeing some much needed rain this week. In some areas experts say it may be too little and too late for the rain to be effective. As the drought worsens, both crops and livestock are being impacted.
USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey says although it is wet in the southeast, it is completely the opposite story in the northern plains and the Midwest. Rippey says crops in areas that saw heavy rains during the planting season were especially hit hard.
Farmers and ranchers in North Dakota who need help finding hay and pastures can call the state’s drought hotline. Ranchers impacted by drought or those who want to help can also access an interactive drought map that details where the needs are the greatest, and also highlights where ranchers have hay to sell or pastureland to rent.